A Citrus County Chronicle reader is raising concerns that the Chassahowitzka River was left out of a large state springs improvement funding package. The letter, published November 9, 2026, appeared in the newspaper’s Crystal River coverage area. The writer noted that a significant sum of money was recently allocated to the Homosassa and Crystal rivers for springs restoration, while the Chassahowitzka was not mentioned.
The reader, who has lived and fished on the Chassahowitzka River for more than 65 years, said the omission stood out immediately. The river flows through Citrus and Hernando counties and is known for its clear spring-fed waters, abundant wildlife and popular paddling and fishing spots. The writer asked a direct question in the headline: what about the Chassahowitzka?
The Chassahowitzka River is part of the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge and feeds the Gulf of Mexico near the community of Chassahowitzka. Like other Nature Coast springs, it faces concerns over declining water quality, nitrate levels and reduced spring flow. Local residents have long pushed for protections similar to those applied to nearby springs systems.
The letter does not state how the funding decisions were made or whether the Chassahowitzka is eligible for future projects. Officials have not yet responded publicly to the question. Readers interested in the state’s springs funding can review project details through the Citrus County Chronicle and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection springs program.
For more information on local water resources, residents can also visit the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Chassahowitzka refuge page. Dade Hill News will follow up if county or state officials respond to the concerns raised.
Originally reported by Citrus County Chronicle – Crystal River
